The body sweats to maintain its constant temperature, but also to react to situations of emotional tension. However, for some people, the increase in sweating in the regions where sweat glands are present (extremities, hands, feet and face) is a real disorder that is called hyperhidrosis .
In more serious cases, Botox is the most valid approach. This involves inoculation of the toxin of the bacterium Clostridium botulinum type A into the palms of the hands, the soles of the feet, under the armpits or in the face, with 10-15 small punctures evenly distributed in the area to be treated. Botulinum toxin A is able to block the production of sweat in the affected surface, inhibiting the receptors for acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter responsible for stimulating the sweat glands). This effect is not definitive, but persists for a few months (approximately 5 to 12 months, depending on the area treated), that is until the nerve endings regain their ability to release acetylcholine with gradual sweating. To maintain stable results, it is possible to repeat the treatment at regular intervals, depending on the patient's needs.
The side effects associated with botulinum toxin injections are transient and may include the appearance of erythema (redness), edema (swelling), hematoma, weakness and tenderness in the treated parts. These local reactions generally resolve within a few hours or a few days. In the treatment of hyperhidrosis at the palmar level, a temporary reduction in the grip strength can be observed, with difficulty performing certain movements (such as turning the keys or unscrewing a cap). In rare cases, generalized asthenia may occur.
Treatment of hyperhidrosis with botulinum toxin is contraindicated in subjects with known hypersensitivity to the toxin or to any of the components of the formulation, in the presence of neuromuscular and pregnant and lactating disorders.
